Cremation FAQs
Q: What is cremation?
A: Cremation is the process of degrading the human body to its basic chemical compounds which appear as bone fragments, by the application of high heat and flame. It is an alternative to the in-ground burial of a dead body in a casket. Cremation is not a kind of funeral service nor is the final disposition of human remains.
Q: Is a casket required for a cremation to take place?
A: A casket is not required for a cremation to take place. In most states, all that is required is an alternative container which can be constructed of wood or cardboard, and is cremated along with the deceased.
Q: Can a cremation be witnessed by the family?
A: Yes, in most situations, the cremation provider will permit family members to be in attendance when the body is placed into the cremation chamber. Actually, a few religious groups include this as integral part of their funeral practice.
Q: How long does cremation take?
A: It is highly subject to the weight of the deceased. On an average, it could take from two to three hours to cremate an average-sized adult at temperature ranging from 1400 degree Fahrenheit to 1800 degree Fahrenheit.
Q: Are there any religions that do not approve of cremation?
A: Most major religions readily accept cremation, with the exception of Islam and Orthodox Judaism. Today, all of the Christian denominations allow cremation and are pleased for their members who choose it. (The Catholic Church approves cremation, but advocates the interment of the cremated remains in a cemetery.) Buddhists favor cremation, and for Hindus, cremation is the orthodox method of disposition.
Q: Are remains always returned?
A: Yes, we give back all the remains to the family with the slight exception of microscopic particles, which cannot be removed from the chamber of cremation.
Q: How can you be certain that all remains are kept separate, and you receive the correct remains?
A: All responsible cremation providers have thorough operating policies and procedures in order to provide the highest level of service and reduce the possibility of human error. If you have questions, ask the cremation provider what procedures they use, and if you are allowed to witness all or any of the procedures relating to the cremation, including retrieval, processing, and packaging of the cremated remains. It is not only your right, but also your responsibility to gain a feeling of confidence in your cremation provider’s facility, employees, policies, and procedures. Choosing your cremation provider is one of the most critical decisions you need to make.
Q: What can be done with the cremated remains?
A: You can choose from a multitude of options; such as burying the remains in a cemetery or cremation garden, preserving it in an urn, which could be kept at home, or scattering it in a ceremony. We encourage you to discuss your options with our well-informed staff and will be happy to help you make your decision.
If you are interested in cremation for you or a loved one, contact one of our local cremation providers:
Arlington, Brooklyn, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Forth Worth, Houston, Louisville, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, New York City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Queens, San Antonio, St. Paul.